The commandant of the US Coast Guard has been removed from her position due to reported leadership deficiencies and operational failures. A Department of Homeland Security official confirmed the decision on Tuesday.
Among the reasons cited for her removal were the failure to address border security threats and an excessive focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion policies. The Coast Guard also experienced significant shortfalls in recruiting personnel under her leadership, despite meeting or exceeding recruiting goals for the first time in six years in October.
Additionally, the mishandling and coverup of Operation Fouled Anchor, an internal investigation revealing numerous rape and assault allegations within the agency from the late 1980s to 2006, were listed as contributing factors to her removal.
Commandant Adm. Linda Fagan claimed she only became aware of the full extent of the Fouled Anchor probe last year, although she had previously taken action against a commanding officer involved in the investigation.
President Donald Trump's recent executive orders aimed at increasing military presence at the southern border have been linked to the decision to remove Fagan. Trump has criticized the military for being too focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
Notably, Fagan was the first female uniformed leader of a US armed forces branch. The Coast Guard has faced scrutiny from Trump's allies in the past over its DEI initiatives, with some labeling them as 'indoctrination.'
Fox News initially reported Fagan's removal from her position, which occurred shortly after Trump's inauguration. The US Coast Guard has been contacted for comment regarding Fagan's dismissal.
